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It is with great pleasure that we announce exciting news that Kadant Inc. (NYSE: KAI) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Syntron Material Handling Group, LLC (SMH) from entities affiliated with Levine Leichtman Capital Partners. The acquisition is expected to close in January 2019, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. Over the past 4-plus years, SMH has made significant strides investing in and building our business capabilities with the goal of improving cost competitiveness, quote responsiveness and on-time delivery, not to mention, transitioning the company to strengthen working relationships with our Distribution Partners. The company’s executive team will remain with the business and are more than ever committed to our strategy of providing our customers with Proven Engineered Products and Complete Material Handling Solutions.

“Our acquisition of Syntron provides Kadant with premier products and services that extend our footprint into new process industries,” said Jonathan Painter, president and chief executive officer of Kadant. “Like Kadant, Syntron’s technology adds high value to critical processes in resource-intensive industries and is a leader in its markets with a history of stable earnings and a strong aftermarket business. In addition, Syntron has an excellent management team which we expect will make a strong contribution to our business.”

“Syntron and Kadant both offer market-leading products and technologies that deliver exceptional value to their customers,” commented Andy Blanchard, president and chief executive officer of Syntron Material Handling. “We are excited to be joining Kadant and we believe there are numerous opportunities to leverage both companies’ competitive advantages.”
(Syntron Material Handling)

Kemira, a global chemicals company serving customers in water intensive industries, is happy to announce the winner of the “Food for Thought” innovation challenge – looking for new business models and alternatives to single use plastics in food packaging.

The winning team of food packaging and behaviour design professionals, represented by Janne Asikainen and Riitta Mettomäki, is called Koepala. At the end of an intensive 2-day camp organized jointly by Kemira and the Industryhack innovation platform, Koepala presented a sustainable and functional packaging solution for takeaway food. The Kemira jury chose the winners among four teams that were invited to participate in the camp.

“Koepala’s proposal is very concrete and responded well to our challenge. It can be piloted in a short time frame and we see potential in it. A great big thanks to all teams for their interest and participation, it is truly inspirational to collaborate with these bright minds,” says Sami Puttonen, Senior Manager from Kemira’s Pulp & Paper segment.
(Kemira, Paper Segment)

AGRANA announces the launch of its bioplastic AGENACOMP®. A 50:50 blend of thermoplastic starch and a biologically degradable polyester has given rise to an bioplastic compound which is fully compostable at home. “This is the first product for the bioplastic market containing such a high proportion of starch (the market standard is only around 25%) and one which makes the product compostable at home. The TÜV-certified compost tests revealed 100% degradation without microplastic residues,” explains AGRANA CEO Johann Marihart. Diverse application areas exist for AGRANA’s new bioplastic compound, ranging from thin bags for fruit and vegetables to thicker carrier bags and even as packaging film.

Biodegradable plastics are not always compostable
The terms ‘biodegradable’ and ‘compostable’ are used both in connection with plastics made from renewable resources (bioplastics) as well as certain materials based on mineral oil. But not all biodegradable bioplastics are compostable. Critics are particularly sensitive when it comes to the imprecise term ‘biodegradable’ because the international guidelines relevant for this classification (OECD 301 and OECD 302) do not specify the period of time in which the product must degrade. The result is often unsettled consumers who are not aware whether some bioplastic products are suitable as organic waste.

In terms of compostability, a differentiation needs to be made between ‘home-compostable’ and industrial composting processes. “Home compostability is without doubt particularly important. Taking care of our own composting is a means of reducing waste since this biowaste neither lands in the household waste nor needs to be separately collected via the organic waste bin and industrially disposed of. Around a third of all household waste is biowaste,” Marihart highlights.

Marihart: “We need to exploit every opportunity to reduce plastic waste”
The public needs to become far more aware of compostability at home as an important quality criterion in the case of bioplastics. “Other countries such as Italy and France are leading the way here and even implementing legal regulations prescribing that plastic bags must be suitable for home composting. This requirement should apply throughout the EU,” according to Marihart. “The environment in Austria is polluted by around 5,000 metric tons of plastic waste every year. Given the enormous problem with plastic waste, we need to exploit every practical option to counteract this. We also have to remember that bioplastics help reduce greenhouse gas emissions given that they are made using renewable resources,” says Marihart, with a view to the current Katowice Climate Change Conference, and welcoming the initiative of the Austrian federal government to ban conventional plastic bags from 2020.

Specialities strategy
With its three production sites in Austria, in addition to one in both Hungary and Romania, AGRANA’s Starch segment, in addition to acting as a commodity trader, has positioned itself as a specialist for bespoke starch applications in downstream industries. Besides the development of thermoplastic starches for the production of bioplastics, a further focus area is so-called clean label starches; starches which are not chemically modified. The company plays a leading role in the supply of organic and GMO-free starches to the food industry.

Versatile starches
Starches are used in nearly all areas of the food industry, for example in the baking and confectionery sectors, in dairy products and in the production of sausage products, as well as in so-called long-life potato products. Due to its excellent palatability, starch is also used in infant formulas. In the non-food sector, the paper and paper processing (e.g. corrugated board) industries are among the top purchasers of starch products. Starches are also used in the textile industry (finishes and adhesives for fabrics), in the construction chemicals industry (pigment pastes and shotcrete), in pharmaceutical products (tablets) and in cosmetics (baby powder, rouges and creams).
(Agrana Stärke GmbH)

Koehler has already laid the foundation with an investment of over 300 million euros in its Kehl mill, where the company plans to produce paper-based solutions with special barrier properties. The objective is to replace plastic with sustainable paper solutions wherever possible and practical.

Photo: This January, Technische Universität Darmstadt and the Koehler Paper Group will kick off the Green Coating Collaboration, a research partnership aimed at developing functional surfaces from sustainable raw materials.

Achieving Innovation through Synergies
“We are leveraging infrastructure synergies, the core competencies, and the expertise of TU Darmstadt and Koehler in the best possible way for this innovative project,” said Dr. Markus Wildberger, corporate director of technology at Koehler, explaining the project’s intentions. “The institute for Macromolecular and Paper Chemistry at TU Darmstadt is a world-class research partner, and we are looking forward to working together.”

Within the framework of this collaboration, both Koehler employees and employees and students from TU Darmstadt will carry out joint research at the university to develop functional surfaces that are recyclable and/or biodegradable, which will allow the paper coated with these materials to be fed into the paper recycling process, the challenges of which, unlike many other materials cycles, have already been solved.

The Goal Is a Long-Term Strategic Partnership
According to Dr. Markus Biesalski, who is heading up the project on behalf of TU Darmstadt, both sides are striving for a long-term collaboration and hope to expand the work between TU Darmstadt and Koehler into a permanent strategic partnership after an initial two-year phase, depending on how the project progresses.

“Koehler has an extremely well-positioned development department for a medium-sized company and brings a great deal of expertise to the table, which we will certainly benefit from,” he said, also emphasizing the expected synergies. In addition to Dr. Wildberger, Dr. Stefan Karrer and Dr. Michael Horn are both part of the team at Koehler responsible for the Green Coating Collaboration.
(Papierfabrik August Koehler SE)

At Swedish pulp mill Södra Cell Värö, condition monitoring has long been a well-integrated and successful part of preventive maintenance. The mill is now making further investments in condition monitoring and has chosen the high-performance and highly flexible online system Intellinova Parallel EN to maximize the availability of the pulp drying machine.

Photo: Södra Cell Värö Pulp mill. Photo: Södra/Per Pixel Petersson

With sixteen parallel channels for vibration measurement and extensive functionality to meet the needs for a variety of applications and measurement configurations, Intellinova Parallel EN is a highly efficient system. High-quality condition data with HD technology makes Intellinova Parallel EN ideal for integration into Industry 4.0, where data quality is essential for high-precision analysis and well-founded decision-making.

The wire, press and dryer sections will be fitted with a total of 161 DuoTech accelerometers, combining the patented measurement methods SPM HD and HD ENV. The measurement results ​​are analyzed in the Condmaster Ruby 2019 analysis software, where clear, intelligible graphics of the machine make it easy to identify which machine part is alerting to high readings. Using the standard REST API interface or OPC UA, measurement data can be retrieved from Condmaster and transferred to a superior control system and/or Industry 4.0 system.

The online system will be installed continuously in 2019 in cooperation between SPM and Södra Cell.

In a comment on the investment, Andreas Lindblom, Maintenance Manager of the mechanical workshop at Södra Cell Värö, said: "We continue to invest in SPM equipment to increase plant availability by avoiding bearing damage that may develop into failure."

Södra Cell Värö just north of Varberg on the Swedish west coast is one of the world’s largest and most modern pulp mills, with an annual production of 700.000 tonnes of pulp. The plant also produces green electricity, district heating and biofuel in the form of dried bark. Production takes place in a highly automated work process, around the clock all year round, except for planned maintenance shutdowns. The pulp mill has previously installed SPM online systems to monitor the condition of wash presses, rotary lime kiln, and machinery in the digester production unit, and uses the handheld instrument Leonova Diamond for route-based measurement. The adjacent sawmill Södra Wood Värö has also invested in Intellinova Parallel EN for monitoring critical machines in timber sorting, saw-line, and finishing sections.
(SPM Instrument AB)

19.12.2018

Valmet to supply a new baling line and cutter layboy upgrade to Sappi Saiccor pulp mill in ...
(Company news)

...South Africa

Valmet has received an order for a new baling line (photo) and a cutter layboy rebuild as part of the Vulindlela project at the Sappi Saiccor mill in South Africa. The start-up of the rebuilt cutter and the new baling line is scheduled for the third quarter of 2019.

The order was included in Valmet's third quarter of 2018 orders received. An order with this scope of supply is usually valued around EUR 4 million.

The overall targets for the Vulindlela project are to reduce the environmental footprint of the mill and to increase its total production from 783 000 ADt/a to 890 000 ADt/a.

"Valmet was selected as the supplier of this equipment for their cost effective and innovative solution that meets the required production rate," says Wayne Weston, Vulindlela Project Director, Sappi.

"We are pleased to receive this order from Sappi and see our long and good cooperation continue along with this project. This time we can also offer automation services close to the customer through our office in Durban, which we hope will add value to the overall project," says Ulf Thorén, Sales Manager, Wood and Pulp Handling Business Unit, Valmet.

Details about Valmet's delivery
Valmet's delivery includes a new cross cutter roll, new baling line machinery with a bale quality system. In addition, a bale quality system will be installed on the existing baling line. The existing conveyors between the cutter and the new baling line will be upgraded to fit the new production. The capacity of the new baling line will be 1200 ADt/d.
(Valmet Corporation)

UPM plans to invest EUR 2 billion in a new mill to be located near the city of Paso de los Toros in central Uruguay. The new mill would have capacity to produce about 2 million tonnes of eucalyptus pulp annually.

A year ago UPM and the government of Uruguay signed an investment agreement which outlines the local prerequisites for a potential pulp mill. The agreement details the roles, commitments and timeline for both parties as well as the relevant items to be agreed prior to the final investment decision. Currently UPM is carrying out technical studies and applying for the necessary permits.

“A pulp mill investment of this scale requires efficient logistics to enable secure wood supply and pulp deliveries from the inland mill to the port of Montevideo. This will require the construction of a modern railway to the port and a modern pulp terminal as well as development of the road network,” says Petri Hakanen, Senior Vice President of the UPM Uruguay Development Project.

The new railway would provide transport opportunities not only for forestry but also for other businesses like grain and wooden products, while also increasing Uruguay’s export competitiveness worldwide.
“We need to ensure that infrastructure development and the permit processes move forward as planned. These are the most significant requirements at this stage,” says Hakanen.

Boost to local economy
The new pulp mill would have various positive impacts on Uruguay, providing the community with jobs, training and improved infrastructure. The mill’s location is in the least developed area of the country, potentially providing a major spur for rapid regional development similar to the earlier example of Fray Bentos.

The new pulp mill is estimated to increase GDP by two per cent. It would boost the local economy and fuel the growth of hundreds of small and medium sized companies throughout the entire value chain. It would also generate a significant number of permanent jobs in industry, plantations, harvesting, port operations and related services.
(UPM)

18.12.2018

Jani Sillanpää has been appointed an interim Senior Vice President, Business Unit AFH
(Company news)

BSc, BA Jani Sillanpää has been appointed an interim Senior Vice President, Business Unit Away From Home.

Bild: Katrin Plus Hand Towel C-fold 2 EasyFlush

Currently Sillanpää is in charge of the Away From Home sales. He is located in Mariestad, Sweden. He has been working on marketing and sales positions for Metsä Tissue since 2006.

He will be part of the Metsä Tissue´s Management Team and will report to Metsä Tissue´s CEO Esa Kaikkonen.

The digital front end capabilities of the highly responsive Xeikon 3300 proved to be a real crowd pleaser at Labelexpo India. Stealing the limelight was a roll-2-roll configuration which was sold at the show.

Visitors were interested in its digital front-end capabilities and how the responsive and flexible system can cost effectively expand their business production capabilities and door opening opportunities.

The entry level narrow web label press excels in productivity and prints at true 1200 dpi. Supporting high quality production for self-adhesive labels and the heat-transfer sector, it is the only digital press with a real prepress workflow and strong color management functionality to ensure maximum performance with CMYK + White. The Xeikon Color Control is an industry unique application to enhance make ready features, optimization of the CMYK color gamut and providing easy to managed introduction of special color to further enhance the press capabilities.

It was shown along with print samples from the recently launched PX3000. The UV inkjet press was developed in response to the growing need for digital label printing technologies that drive new applications and produces them in the most efficient way.

Bent Serritslev, Xeikon’s Managing Director APAC, says, “We are committed to delivering leading edge solutions and our significant presence at Labelexpo India underpins that. We were delighted to see so much interest in digital development during the show and that was reflected by the number of strong leads we received”.

“While still focused on ways to cost effectively and flexibly manage short runs, there also seemed to be a growing interest in managing versioning, VDP and brand protection. We had some very insightful conversations and are looking forward to expanding on them long after the show.”
(Xeikon Manufacturing and R&D Center)

18.12.2018

Suzano Pulp and Paper announces final approval of merger with Fibria
(Company news)

Suzano Pulp and Paper announces to the market that it has obtained regulatory approval from the European Commission to conclude the combination of operations and shareholder bases with Fibria. With reviews by all required antitrust agencies duly completed, the companies can now proceed with the consummation of the transaction. The corporate restructuring, which will be concluded on January 14, 2019, will create Brazil’s fourth most valuable company (excluding financial institutions).

“We are about to transform a dream into reality and set a true milestone for Brazil. We will combine the best operational and sustainability practices of the two companies, the best professionals and the most important innovation projects in renewable resources,” said CEO Walter Schalka.
Once the corporate restructuring is concluded, the company will have a new brand, changing its name to Suzano. Walter Schalka will lead the company as CEO.

Suzano will have an annual production capacity of 11 million tons of market pulp and 1.4 million tons of paper. The company will have approximately 37,000 direct and indirect employees and 11 manufacturing units with the capacity to supply more than 90 countries and to ship exports worth R$26 billion, based on exports in the 12 months to September 30, 2018. From January to September this year, the two companies reported operating cash flow of R$10.1 billion and consolidated net revenue of R$24.5 billion. Together they already have invested R$4.9 billion in the first nine months of the year.

The transaction will be concluded in accordance with the plan announced on March 16, 2018, when the merger agreement was signed. On September 13, 2018, the shareholders of Suzano and Fibria approved the terms of the corporate restructuring at their respective Extraordinary Shareholders Meetings.

All other conditions precedent for the merger of Suzano and Fibria have been fulfilled. The transaction was approved without restrictions by the antitrust authorities in the United States (May 31), China (Aug. 31) and Turkey (Sept. 6). In Brazil, the agreement was approved, also without restrictions, by the country’s antitrust authority CADE (Oct. 11) and by the National Water Transportation Agency – ANTAQ (Nov. 14). On November 29, the antitrust authority in Europe also approved the restructuring, subject to the early termination of the hardwood pulp offtake agreement between Fibria and Klabin S.A.

The corporate restructuring involves a series of steps. Each Fibria shareholder will receive 0.4611 common shares in Suzano and R$52.50 per common share, which will be adjusted as provided for in the merger agreement approved by shareholders. The total amount to be paid on the date of the transaction’s consummation, i.e. January 14, will be announced to the market on January 10.

To fund the amounts to be paid to Fibria shareholders, Suzano has entered into commitments with international financial institutions to raise financing in the aggregate amount of US$9.2 billion, of which US$6.9 billion is a three-year bridge loan and the remaining US$2.3 billion is a six-year financing facility. The proceeds from the bridge loan signed in March, however, have been replaced over the course of the year by new funds at more attractive conditions. Due to the strong cash generation by Suzano in the intervening period, the capital requirement for completion has been lower than initially projected.

Consequent to the transaction, Suzano stock will be traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Fibria stock will be delisted from the São Paulo Stock Exchange (B3) and from the NYSE after the close of trading on January 3. The ADSs of Suzano is expected to trade on the NYSE as from December 10.

With the consummation of the merger between Suzano and Fibria, Suzano begins to forge a new path to the future. “We are very motivated by the challenge of continuing to reinvent ourselves to generate even more positive impacts for society,” said Walter Schalka.
(Suzano Papel e Celulose S.A.)

18.12.2018

August Faller expands its product range with the addition of a booklet wrap-around label
(Company news)

Pharma packs are now used to communicate much more than just product information. Nowadays, pharmaceutical manufacturers want to use the packaging to provide details of clinical studies, descriptions in numerous languages and information regarding correct usage.

In order to provide them with additional space for this purpose, the August Faller Group has expanded its already extensive portfolio to include a new product: the new multi-page booklet wrap-around label for round containers.It is useful for doctors, chemists and patients when pharmaceutical and healthcare product packaging contains important information. This can range from descriptions in multiple languages to details of clinical studies and marketing campaigns that offer a purchase incentive for non-prescription products. The direct communication space provided on small bottles and jars is usually very limited. The August Faller Group's new multi-page booklet wrap-around label significantly increases the space available to pharmaceutical manufacturers. The major benefit here is that the information is directly applied to the primary packaging or container – so it is always at hand.

Wide-ranging possibilities, attractive appearance

The packaging specialist is able to produce this combination of label and package insert with anywhere from two to 32 pages, according to customer needs. It is enclosed in transparent foil, which protects the label while at the same time giving it a high-quality look. What is more, it is possible to apply Braille to the top surface. The basic label itself is also made of a PP foil, in this case with a white finish. 90 g/m² coated paper is used for the booklet. Variable data, such as a 2D data matrix code can also be printed on request.

Flexible to apply, easy to openThe pharmaceutical expert also offers its customers attractive solutions for the booklet wrap label in terms of application and opening options. It can be applied to round containers both as a permanent attachment and in detachable form. If parts of the label are relevant to the patient file, these can be made removable. In all types, an opening tab and a shortened base label ensure that users of all ages can access the information conveniently.

For round containers made of glass and plasticIn order to ensure that both small-scale and large-scale manufacturers in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry can benefit from the new solution, the label can be applied manually or by machine to glass or plastic containers. Mechanical application involves the label being affixed directly off the roll with the spine first.
(August Faller GmbH & Co. KG)

Statkraft and Norske Skog Skogn AS (photo) and Norske Skog Saugbrugs AS have entered into new long-term industrial power supply agreements for the period from 1 December 2018 to 31 December 2026. The total delivery will be about 14 TWh, with annual deliveries of approximately 900 GWh to each mill.

The contracts will contribute to the supply of power to Norske Skog's paper mills in Skogn and Halden, and will replace previous contracts between Statkraft and Norske Skog.

"We are pleased to extend our comprehensive and long-term cooperation with Norske Skog. Norske Skog has been through a period with demanding challenges and group restructuring. Statkraft has been the main supplier of power to Norske Skog for many years, and it is a pleasure that we contribute to predictable and competitive power supply agreements, "said Hallvard Granheim, Executive Vice President of Market Operations & IT at Statkraft.

"The new contracts improve the competitiveness of our two major plants in Norway, and will at the same time be a contribution to ensuring important jobs in the processing of Norwegian raw materials. In a paper market with steadily falling demand, only mills with the lowest cost position and the most efficient operation will survive. Therefore, we are also dependent on improving the Norwegian political framework conditions and ensuring favourable purchasing terms from other suppliers to Norske Skog, "says Niels Petter Wright, CEO of Norske Skog.
(Norske Skog Skogn)

17.12.2018

Canadians are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging
(Company news)

-Annual survey by Asia Pulp and Paper sees growing opportunity for businesses to take eco-friendly action-

The latest sustainability study from Asia Pulp and Paper found a growing number of Canadians are willing to pay more for food if it helps the environment. The annual survey found over half of consumers (56%) said they would be willing to pay an increased price for fast food products packaged in sustainable materials, with 37% saying they would be open to paying up to 10% more.

Nearly half (48%) of Canadians surveyed considered a company’s sustainability values as important when selecting a fast food restaurant. And, when it comes to fast food packaging, 59% of consumers rated sustainability an important factor, roughly on par with compostable/biodegradable (62%) and size (58%).

The Study also found thata growing number of Canadians (71%) areplacinghigher importance on sustainable food packaging than they did five years ago.

“We have come a long way from paper being the enemy,” said Ian Lifshitz, Vice President of Sustainability & Stakeholder Relations at Asia Pulp & Paper Canada. “This research shows that if brands invest in raising awareness with consumers, and promote their commitment to the environment they will be rewarded by Canadians.”

The vast majority of Canadians (85%) cite at least one obstacle that prevents them from properly disposing food packaging and waste that can be recycled or composted.The top three are packaging that is not clearly marked as recyclable/compostable (47%), followed by a lack of proper receptacles in restaurants (40%) and packaging that still contains food when thrown out (38%).

Just over one in three respondents (35%) agree that fast food/fast casual companies serve food in sustainable packaging.

More food for thought for the foodservice industry comes when we look at Canadianattitudes towards at-home delivery.Three in five (59%) have had a food-related item delivered to their home in the past year, the most common being fast food (52%).

In the next year, over one in four consumers (27%) expect the number of at-home deliveries they receive to increase. Younger respondents, aged 18 to 34, were the most likely to expect the frequency of their at-home deliveries to increase over the next year.

“With eco-friendly practices on the rise, ongoing tracking of consumer preferences will be of paramount importance. By keeping updated on sustainability trends, food services can make better choices regarding packaging and innovation, cost control, customer preferences, and also environmentally-friendly practices - which in the long-run can impact the bottom line and overall growth,” said Wayne Russum, Senior Vice President, CARAVAN.

A big win for the industry is a clear preference among Canadians for paper disposable products, with 63% saying they opt for paper materials most often, trailed by plastic (15%) and Styrofoam (6%).

Methodology
The Sustainability survey was administered among a representative sample of 1,003 Canadian adults using Engine’s Online CARAVAN® International Omnibus Survey. Online interviews took place August 17-22, 2018. Data is statistically weighted by age, gender and geographic region to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the Canadian population, 18 years of age and older.
(IKPP P.T. Indah Kiat Pulp & Paper TbK)

Fiscal Year Highlights Include (all results compared to the fiscal year 2017 unless otherwise noted):
-Net sales increased by $235.6 million to $3,873.8 million.
-Gross profit increased by $74.2 million to $788.9 million.
-Operating profit increased by $71.0 million to $370.5 million, and operating profit before special items1 increased by $56.7 million to $391.7 million.
-Income tax expense increased by $6.1 million to $73.3 million, but our effective tax rate decreased from 33.6 percent to 24.4 percent.
-Net income of $209.4 million or $3.55 per diluted Class A share increased compared to net income of $118.6 million or $2.02 per diluted Class A share, despite the negative impact of foreign currency exchange. Net income, excluding the impact of special items, of $208.7 million or $3.53 per diluted Class A share increased compared to net income, excluding the impact of special items, of $173.1 million or $2.95 per diluted Class A share.
-Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $52.0 million to $253.0 million. The $52.0 million decrease included a one-time $65.0 million U.S. pension contribution. Free cash flow excluding the additional U.S. pension contribution2 decreased by $30.4 million to $177.8 million primarily as a result of higher capital expenditures and the negative impact of foreign exchange on operating working capital and certain accruals of approximately $24.0 million.

"Greif delivered a strong financial performance in fiscal 2018, despite being impacted by significant cost inflation in most areas of the business," said Pete Watson (photo), Greif's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Fiscal year 2018 Class A earnings per share before special items rose by roughly 20 percent year over year, aided by particularly strong performance in our Paper Packaging & Services and Flexible Products & Services segments. Demand was solid across many of our markets, and we benefited from productivity initiatives and newer substrate growth, especially with Intermediate Bulk Containers. However, at the end of fiscal 2018 we began to see signs of market softness in discrete areas of our global portfolio. As we look to fiscal 2019, we will continue to monitor these signs closely and adapt if market conditions change. We are confident in our ability to execute on our fiscal 2019 plans and remain well positioned to deliver superior value to our customers and shareholders in the year ahead."

Fourth Quarter Highlights Include (all results compared to the fourth quarter 2017 unless otherwise noted):
-Net sales increased by $19.6 million to $987.7 million.
-Gross profit increased by $22.4 million to $204.8 million.
-Operating profit increased by $41.4 million to $103.3 million and operating profit before special items increased by $24.4 million to $113.3 million.
-Income tax expense increased by $36.9 million to $42.1 million.
-Net income of $40.1 million or $0.67 per diluted Class A share increased compared to net income of $33.3 million or $0.57 per diluted Class A share. Net income, excluding the impact of special items, of $64.3 million or $1.08 per diluted Class A share increased compared to net income, excluding the impact of special items, of $57.8 million or $0.98 per diluted Class A share.
-Net cash provided by operating activities decreased by $2.7 million to $197.2 million.

Customer Service
Our fourth quarter 2018 consolidated CSI3 score improved to 87.8, with the largest improvement recorded in the Flexible Products & Services segment. Our objective is that each business segment delivers a CSI score of 95 or better. Our Paper Packaging & Services segment is above that threshold. Additionally, we recently completed our seventh NPS4 survey and achieved a best ever score of 50, which represents a 25 percent improvement from the baseline survey conducted in the fourth quarter of 2015. This latest survey's score was driven higher by especially strong customer service performance in the Flexible Products & Services segment. Our aspiration is to consistently achieve an NPS score of 55 or greater. We continue to leverage the increased customer interactions that accompany each survey into additional enhancements for our customers and better strategic insight into their business needs.

Net sales are impacted mainly by the volume of primary products5 sold, selling prices, product mix and the impact of changes in foreign currencies against the U.S. Dollar. The table below shows the percentage impact of each of these items on net sales for our primary products for the fourth quarter of 2018 as compared to the prior year quarter for the business segments with manufacturing operations:

Rigid Industrial Packaging & Services
Net sales decreased by $4.6 million to $657.9 million. Net sales excluding foreign currency translation increased by $29.5 million due primarily to an 8.4 percent increase in selling prices on our primary products as a result of strategic pricing decisions and contractual price changes, partially offset by softness in discrete markets, operational challenges in Brazil, and the continued impact of weaker European conical drum demand due to weather. During the quarter we announced the closure of a plant in the Shanghai region as part of our response to competitive pressures in China.

Gross profit decreased by $2.2 million to $116.7 million. The decrease in gross profit was primarily due to lower sales, the timing of contractual pass through arrangements and a $1.0 million increase in transportation costs, partially offset by lower manufacturing expenses.

Operating profit increased by $16.9 million to $42.8 million. Operating profit before special items increased by $0.5 million to $53.0 million due to the same factors that impacted gross profit, partially offset by a decrease in the segment's selling, general, and administrative ("SG&A") expense. Foreign currency exchange negatively impacted operating profit before special items by a significant amount due largely to weakening conditions in Argentina that were only partially offset by inflationary price increases in the country.

Paper Packaging & Services
Net sales increased by $21.8 million to $244.8 million. The increase was due to higher selling prices resulting from increases in published containerboard pricing, higher volumes and stronger specialty sales.

Gross profit increased by $20.8 million to $69.8 million. The increase in gross profit was primarily due to higher containerboard prices and lower old corrugated container input costs, partially offset by a $4.0 million increase in transportation costs.

Operating profit increased by $19.5 million to $53.3 million. Operating profit before special items increased by $19.5 million to $53.5 million due to the same factors that impacted gross profit, partially offset by an increase in the segment's SG&A expense as a result of increased performance based compensation.

Gross profit increased by $3.7 million to $15.7 million primarily due to the same factors that impacted net sales and lower manufacturing costs.

Operating profit increased by $5.1 million to $5.4 million. Operating profit before special items increased by $4.4 million to $5.0 million. The improvement in operating profit before special items was due primarily to the same factors that impacted gross profit, a decrease in the segment's SG&A expense, and a significant positive impact of foreign currency exchange.

Land Management
Net sales increased by $1.1 million to $7.5 million.
Operating profit decreased by $0.1 million to $1.8 million.

Dividend Summary
On December 4, 2018, the Board of Directors declared quarterly cash dividends of $0.44 per share of Class A Common Stock and $0.65 per share of Class B Common Stock. Dividends are payable on January 1, 2019, to stockholders of record at the close of business on December 18, 2018.

Tax Summary
For the fourth quarter, the Company's income tax rate was 48.6 percent and its income tax rate excluding the impact of special items was 29.8 percent.

As of October 31, 2018, the Company's accounting for the Tax Reform Act was provisional and work is progressing. For example, as it relates to transition tax, the Company continues to analyze the earnings and profits and tax pools of its foreign subsidiaries. The Company has recorded as of that date a provisional estimate for the following items: a provisional tax benefit related to the revaluation of deferred tax assets and liabilities of $72.0 million; and a provisional tax expense as a result of the accrual for the transition tax liability of $52.8 million. Adjustments to the provisional estimates will be recorded and disclosed prospectively during the measurement period and may differ materially from these provisional amounts due to, among other items, additional analyses, changes in interpretations and assumptions previously made by the Company, new or additional regulatory guidance that may be issued, and actions the Company may take as a result of the Tax Reform Act.
(Greif Inc.)

17.12.2018

Cascades doubles its production of moulded pulp packaging with acquisitions in the United States
(Company news)

Cascades Inc. (TSX: CAS), a leader in the recovery and manufacturing of green packaging and tissue products, is pleased to announce the acquisition of assets, all located in the United States, which will allow the company to double its production capacity of ecological packaging manufactured in moulded pulp. The total cost of the transaction amounts to US$ 37.4 million.

The acquired manufacturing plants are Urban Forest Products and Clarion Packaging respectively located in Brook, Indiana and Clarion, Iowa ; two of the top three egg-producing states in the U.S. The plants manufacture moulded pulp protective packaging that primarily serves the egg and quick service restaurant industries and have a combined workforce of just over 150 employees. Cascades also acquired a majority interest in Falcon Packaging, a leader in the distribution of egg packaging which has 31 employees in Ohio, Iowa and Georgia. Combined, these three companies have consolidated sales that exceed US$ 110M annually.

"These acquisitions give us the opportunity to improve Cascades' position in the strategic fresh protein and food services packaging markets. They are also in line with our objective to expand our moulded pulp activities, which produce a recycled, recyclable, compostable and biodegradable packaging product that offers highly interesting opportunities against a backdrop of expanding interest in the circular economy. The value of this transaction is in line with current Cascades trading multiple and will be accretive to net earnings", said Mario Plourde (photo), Cascades President and CEO.

Luc Langevin, President and Chief Operating Officer of Cascades Specialty Products Group, added, "The quality of the acquired assets and their complementary geographical positioning with our existing plants that manufacture moulded pulp packaging will allow us to improve the service we provide to our customers, and support our innovation initiatives. With four moulded pulp plants efficiently spread out across North America, Cascades will build synergy, improve the distribution of production volumes, and allow certain sites to specialize. By doubling our production of moulded pulp packaging, today's announcement underlines our commitment to continue growing our presence in the green packaging market."
(Cascades Inc.)

With SensorBlade, Voith is offering a new service for optimizing doctor blade settings. Thanks to an especially uniform doctor blade contact pressure over the entire width of the roll, damage to roll covers and web breaks can be avoided.

Photo: The SensorBlade measurement allows the smallest deviations in the blade's contact pressure over the entire CD profile to be identified.

Doctor blades are used in various sections of the paper machine. In particular, the doctor blade plays a crucial role in the area of the center press roll, where in the event of a web break the paper is severed by the doctor blade underneath and removed. In the process, the doctor blade cleans paper residues off the roll cover, so that production can continue smoothly. To achieve this, a uniform contact pressure of the doctor blades over the entire width of the roll cover is critical.

If a paper manufacturer discovers problems, the triggers can be identified by Voith's SensorBlade measurement and rectified based on the measuring results. The Voith SkyLine blade doctor blade used for the measurement consists of several segments that can be connected with one another and that are then fitted with sensors. As a result of this configuration, the measuring device is suitable for all machine widths. The readings from the individual sensors are condensed to provide an overview of the contact pressure over the entire roll width. The data is analyzed by Voith experts and summarized in the form of a report. These results allow the necessary optimization measures to be determined. The SensorBlade measurement can only be performed during a shutdown.

For example, one possible optimization measure is to readjust the blade holder. In severe cases the complete doctor blade unit, including holder and motor, has to be replaced. Voith can offer a solution to this by providing the entire necessary spare and wear parts.

Voith's SensorBlade measurement is a special service that has already impressed several paper manufacturers. “We had problems with strong paper jams on the last drying cylinder of the coater, which led to increased machine losses. Through SensorBlade measurements, we were able to detect deviations in the blade contact pressure across the machine width and initiate targeted countermeasures”, say Werner Krobath, Head of Coating & Pulping Process at Norske Skog Bruck PM4 and Wolfgang Leichtfried, Head of PM4.
(Voith Paper GmbH & Co KG)

17.12.2018

Valmet receives second tissue line order from Century Pulp and Paper in India
(Company news)

Valmet has been chosen to supply a tissue production line to Century Pulp and Paper (CPP) in India. The new Valmet Advantage tissue line will be installed at CPP's mill in Lalkua, India.

The order is included in Valmet's fourth quarter 2018 orders received. The value of the order will not be disclosed.

The order is Valmet's second tissue machine delivery to CPP's Lalkua mill. Cooperation between the companies started in 2008 when CPP's first Valmet tissue machine was installed.

"We are excited to be the first company in India to install a tissue line equipped with an Advantage ViscoNip press. The combination of the state-of-the-art pressing technology and Advantage ReDry will provide significant energy savings, uniform moisture profile and nip load flexibility up to 150 kN/m," says J.P. Narain, CEO, Century Pulp and Paper. "The new production line will add over 36,000 tonnes of high-quality facial tissue, toilet tissue, kitchen towel and napkin grades to the company's current annual production capacity."

The tissue paper market in India is growing rapidly in respect of both capacity and quality, and with the new Valmet tissue machine, CPP will strengthen its market position.

"Century Pulp and Paper is moving the region's tissue business forward, which requires the highest performance and world-leading technologies. We are proud that CPP once again selected Valmet's Advantage tissue technology, and we look forward to continuously developing our cooperation and contributing to the company's strong expansion," says Tomas Karlsson, Sales Director, Valmet.

Information about the delivery
The new tissue Advantage DCT 100HS tissue machine, TM 7, will have a width of 2.85 m and a design speed of 2,000 m/min. The machine will be equipped with an OptiFlo headbox and a 16-foot Yankee cylinder. It will also feature the Advantage tissue technologies AirCap and Hot Air system, as well as a SoftReel A reel. It also features the new ReDry technology, a novel way to recover energy from hood exhaust air to heat the web before drying. In combination with the ViscoNip press, it has proven to provide significant energy savings and quality improvements. The raw material is virgin fiber, and the production line is optimized to save energy and enhance the quality of the final product.
(Valmet Corporation)

Safety should be at the forefront of everyone's minds when creating a public space, with the choice of building materials, exit routes, sprinklers and alarms top priorities. But the safety of graphic materials should also be considered when planning campaigns in public buildings including hospitals, schools, transport hubs and retail environments.

At Drytac we have several certified product ranges. One of our most popular brands, SpotOn®, has achieved a Class B1 Fire Rating to the DIN 4102-1 standard. This widely recognized accreditation means this product range can be used in public areas that must adhere to strict fire regulations - opening up a variety of new applications and markets. Featuring Drytac's unique dot-pattern removable adhesive, it allows for tool-free, bubble-free application to most flat surfaces and clean removal after use.

The SpotOn range is designed to be easy to use which allows non-professionals to install it - people who may be less aware of safety regulations - so it's important that the product is as safe as possible. In addition, specialist floor media SpotOn Floor 200 has an R-10 anti-slip rating post print according to DIN 51130 and classed as 'low slip potential' according to EN 13036-4. This 200 micron (8 mil) embossed printable white matte monomeric PVC film is therefore ideal for a multitude of high-impact floor graphics applications.

For wall graphics, ReTac® Smooth 75 polymeric PVC film and ReTac Smooth 150 polymeric PVC film have also been developed with safety in mind. These products are designed for longer-term applications but are also easy to apply, reposition and remove. Each product has a Class 0 fire rating according to BS746 part 6 & 7 to provide certified graphics for airports, hotels, retail stores, hospitals and more.

It is important to understand that typical graphic media will do little to prevent a building fire from spreading, however certified materials will not contribute to it or spread it through flaming particles. It is essential to carry out research ahead of all display projects based on their intended location and use - with Drytac able to provide advice on its extensive range.
Authored by Shaun Holdom, Global Product Manager, Drytac
(Drytac Europe Limited)

Anticipation is building ahead of the 19th edition of the Hong Kong International Stationery Fair, which opens its doors to the stationery, office and art supply industries from 7 – 10 January 2019. In the build up to the fair’s opening, a mix of well established and emerging brands from around the world have confirmed their participation, and show organisers have announced details of three seminars that will deliver key insights on marketing and retail trends.

The fair represents an important set of dates in the calendar for many companies, who recognise the show as the place to attract a large international audience early in the year. At the upcoming edition, over 260 exhibitors from 13 countries and regions, i.e. from Australia, mainland China, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand and the USA will converge with their very latest product offerings.

Correspondingly, with so many international brands in attendance, many trade visitors hold the fair in high regard as a place to source a wide variety of stationery products for the start of the 2019 trading season. At the previous edition, over 20,000 visitors filtered through the aisles of the fairground during the course of the show, to look for trends and designs.

Varied product selection across five zones to fulfil market sourcing requirements
In order to create a practical sourcing environment for trade visitors, the fair will be designated into five product zones of DIY Supplies, Gift Stationery, Kids & School, Pen & Paper and Smart Office.
As always, product offerings at the show will be closely aligned with modern market requirements. At the Smart Office zone, a host of innovative items will fit the profile of today’s contemporary office. Syloon, a Chinese company that specialises in stationery and office supplies, will return to the fair with its series of ‘smart’ desktop organisers and stationery sets that allow users to personalise their workstation. A host of emerging brands including Avery, Star Glory and SKL will also be present at the zone to showcase an array of digital devices and equipment for modern offices such as keyboards, filing systems, and memo pads.

Elsewhere, back to school items are always a big hit at the fair, and the 2019 edition will be no exception. Everything from school bags and notebooks to licensed stationery sets will be on offer to visitors at the Kids & School zone. A well-known supplier of licensed stationery, Mirage, has been returning to the fair since the first edition in 2001. The company will once again join the fair at the Kids & School zone to meet with existing clients, build new connections, and find new sales channels for its themed pens, pencils, bags and stamps. Pyramid China Limited will also utilise the platform to showcase their latest licensed products, and especially their popular MARVEL themed items. Also joining Mirage and Pyramid at the zone will be Jomily, Kiky, MUST, Nataraj and WeVeel – an American brand who is participating at the fair for the first time this year with its new ‘Scentos’ brand of scented crayons, markers, gel pens, colouring pens and sticker sheets.

Another first time exhibitor joining the fair is icco nico, a Japanese stationery brand who will be stationed at the DIY Supplies zone to showcase their various types of Washi Tape which add fun and enjoyment to everyday life.

With its strong reputation and almost two decades of experience, the fair not only attracts rising stars and emerging brands, but it also regularly brings in industry heavyweights. Just one example is renowned writing instruments brand M&G, who will return to the 2019 fair at the Pen & Paper zone with a selection of its latest writing instruments. The company, which was established in 1996, will display its series of erasable gel pens, fountain pens, as well as differing variations of ball point pens. Other notable brands joining M&G at the zone include 555, Baoke, China First Pencil, Glen, Kaiwen, Le-seal, MIS, Orange Creation and Yung Hsin Hang and Xiangfeng.

Fringe events to explore new marketing channels and retail concepts
As the retail landscape for stationery, office and art supplies continues to evolve, industry stakeholders are increasingly focusing on adopting new retailing and marketing practices that can help them to increase the scale of their businesses.

In the digital era, digital marketing has significant scope for increased adoption. The ‘Digital Marketing: Innovation Key to Success’’ seminar will delve into this topic with a particular focus on consumer behaviour and O2O commerce. Led by the Group Account Director of AdBeyond Limited, the seminar will leave attendees with valuable insights on how to utilise online promotion channels to attract potential customers into retail locations.

Another avenue through which industry stakeholders can boost sales is by updating their retailing models. Consumption patterns have been changing as outlets move away from selling just products, and are now focusing on also selling a unique atmosphere and networking space. These new types of retail stores have been having great success across Asia in countries and regions such as mainland China, Hong Kong and Japan. The ‘Peek into the Upcoming Stationery Trends’ seminar will give attendees further insight into this new retailing model, by welcoming representatives of Toolss, a unique stationery and coffee retailer, who will share unique advice and experiences.

Elsewhere, a seminar on “Expanding your Business through Trade Financing” has invited industry players to share their insights and experience on green finance and ways to increase cash flow.
(Messe Frankfurt Hong Kong)

14.12.2018

Sonoco's Saunders to Retire After Nearly 30 Years of Service - Julie Albrecht to Assume ...
(Company news)

...Chief Financial Officer Duties

Sonoco (NYSE: SON), one of the largest diversified global packaging companies, announced Barry Saunders, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has announced his plans to retire after nearly 30 years with the Company, effective March 1, 2019.

Sonoco also announced plans to appoint Julie Albrecht (photo) who will be named Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective following Saunders’ retirement. On March 1, 2019, Albrecht is expected to assume CFO duties for the Company’s 2019 financial year and report to Rob Tiede, President and Chief Executive Officer. She is a member of the Company’s Executive Committee.

Albrecht, 51, joined Sonoco in March 2017 and has served as Corporate Vice President, Treasurer and Assistant CFO, holding responsibility for the Company’s treasury, tax and risk management functions. During that time she has been responsible for the Company’s relationships with the credit rating agencies and commercial banks and has handled financings for four acquisitions totaling approximately $690 million. She also has been instrumental in the Company’s efforts to drive significant improvement in cash flow from operations and free cash flow in 2018, and has been responsible for management of the Company’s retirement benefit plans.

Albrecht spent nearly 20 years at Goodrich Corporation/United Technologies Aerospace Systems, progressing through several finance positions, including Assistant Treasurer while at Goodrich. In 2012, Goodrich was acquired by United Technologies, and Albrecht became Finance Director of an $800 million business unit and also led financial planning and analysis for a $3.5 billion aftermarket business. Prior to joining Sonoco, she was Vice President, Finance, Investor Relations and Treasurer for Esterline Technologies Corporation in Bellevue, Washington. Albrecht began her career in public accounting with PricewaterhouseCoopers after graduating from Wake Forest University with a BS in Accounting with honors.

“I am excited about the prospect of Julie becoming CFO upon Barry’s retirement. Her experience and leadership in several key financial roles, both inside and outside Sonoco, positions her well to continue building upon the strong financial footing Sonoco has developed over its nearly 120-year history,” said Tiede.

Saunders, 59, became Sonoco’s CFO in May 2011. In this position, he led the Company’s financial and accounting operations on a global basis and more recently took over leadership of Sonoco’s Business Technology function. Saunders joined Sonoco in 1989 after working as an audit manager with Ernst & Young. He worked in leadership positions in the Company’s Treasury Department for seven years before becoming Director of Corporate Reporting and Accounting. He then moved to Europe for four years as Director of Finance for the Company’s European operations before returning as Staff Vice President and Global Controller of the Company’s Industrial businesses. He was promoted to Staff Vice President and Corporate Controller in 2003 and became Vice President, Corporate Controller and Chief Accounting Officer in 2008. Saunders holds a B.S. in Accounting and an MBA from the University of South Carolina.

“Barry has played a crucial role in driving profitable growth across Sonoco’s Consumer and Industrial businesses, as well as being a vital part of the executive leadership team during the development and execution of our current business strategy,” said Tiede. “Barry has built a very strong team of financial leaders throughout our businesses who serve as important business partners across our global operations. I want to personally thank Barry for being a trusted advisor and for his significant contributions to Sonoco throughout his career.”

“In a fast moving market, we need to ensure our solutions are ahead of the game,” states Geert De Proost, Director Solutions Marketing of Esko. “With that in mind, we are constantly looking to make improvements to all aspects of our software solutions. They may be large or small, but the aim is the same: we want to make sure that our customers receive the utmost in value for their investment in the Esko Software Platform and software maintenance. We carefully consider market trends and customer feedback, and these shape many of our improvements. This release is no different. Our overall aim is to ensure customers have the right tools and capabilities to strengthen their efficiency and profitability.”

ArtPro 64-bit includes hyper-modern packaging editor
Among the key highlights is the availability of a macOS-supported 64-bit version of ArtPro. What’s more, customers with a maintenance contract are also entitled to a complimentary copy of ArtPro+, the hyper-modern packaging editor. ArtPro+ features a unique and clean task-driven user interface, enhanced performance, and support for ArtPro-files.

ArtPro+ action lists in Automation Engine for increased prepress efficiency
The new release also features ArtPro+ action lists in Automation Engine. Time-consuming prepress tasks become automated and operators can focus on value-added processes, making the overall prepress operation more efficient.

Full compatibility with Creative Cloud 2019
The newest version of Esko Software Platform ensures full compatibility of all plug-ins with Adobe Creative Cloud 2019, including Studio, DeskPack, and Dynamic Content.

Viewing on the fly
In another release highlight, Imaging Engine now includes In-RIP Prepare for viewing. This allows users to control the quality of ripped files on the fly, during the ripping process. This eliminates waiting times and frees up capacity. “This is particularly important in high-volume converter and premedia operations that increasingly need to manage a higher volume of label and flexo short-run, fast-turn around jobs,” De Proost adds. “It eliminates the need for the process to be completed as a separate task in Automation Engine, and helps premedia operations handle increased throughput.”

Create display variants in seconds
With this release, ArtiosCAD users can create new variants of displays or other multi-part designs in seconds. Users can start from a single resizable canvas design template. This is perfect for sign and display customers and corrugated operations that face lots of design requests and need to offer faster times to market.

“These latest improvements are just the tip of the iceberg,” De Proost concludes. “We have many more in this release. What’s more, we are developing a number of important additional improvements we cannot wait to bring to market to help our customers with their efficiency and cost effectiveness.”
(Esko Belgium)

Valmet and Mercer Group have signed an agreement for on-line performance monitoring for nine Valmet TwinRoll wash presses at the Mercer Stendal mill in Germany. The agreement is valid for one year, with the option of being extended. During this period, Valmet and Mercer will co-operate to further develop fleet management with respect to predictive maintenance and reliability.

The order is included in Valmet's fourth quarter 2018 orders received and constitutes an important step in promoting Valmet's Industrial Internet offering for the chemical pulping business.

The on-line system monitors individual functions of the wash presses by performing advanced data analysis, which generates status reports displayed on dashboards. If any of the monitored functions goes outside the operating limits, an event is triggered and recorded, which enables issues to be predicted and corrected rapidly.

"This will allow the Stendal mill to monitor performance, which will hopefully result in more uptime as well as savings on chemicals," says Dr. Gerhard Wulf, Technical Manager at Mercer Stendal.

"The pilot project has been running at the Stendal mill with a core team of experts from both the customers' side and Valmet. The sharing of knowledge and innovative ideas have been the driving forces for implementation. The wash presses will be connected to the Valmet Performance Center, allowing Valmet to provide Mercer Stendal with the services of experts from different fields, who can provide support to ensure rapid response times and appropriate solutions," says Tomas Edström, Industrial Internet Manager in the Pulp and Energy business line at Valmet.
(Valmet Corporation)

13.12.2018

Reasons to visit Paper One Show Beirut 2019 this January
(Company news)

The 5th edition of Paper One Show comes to you this year from Beirut, Lebanon. Doors open at the BIEL Centre in Hall 2 on the 28th January, 2019.

REASONS TO VISIT PAPER ONE SHOW BEIRUT 2019
Over 1000 trade visitors from 48 different countries have so far registered to visit Paper One Show. Not only will they come from the MENA region, but we are delighted to welcome delegates from the UK, Germany, France, Italy, India and China.
Meet with a wide range of Paper Industry suppliers - ranging from chemical technologies, wrapping/packaging equipment, tissue trading, converting machinery, packaging equipment and supplies to non-woven machinery suppliers.

The leading paper companies from around the world will be in attendance and will be eager to meet you at Paper One Show Beirut! The best suppliers, manufacturers, converters and traders of the paper industry in the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe, as well as many others who are displaying their services and products.

Beirut continues to be an important commercial hub, with easy access from neighbouring countries, from Europe, the CIS, the Middle East, Russia, Asia and Africa. Paper consumption continues to grow in the Middle East and the rate and growth is particularly high in the MENA region.

Paper One Show Beirut 2019 offers the advantage of being able to bring together producers and buyers in the very center of Asia, Europe and the Middle East, thanks to its strategic location and commercial vision, as the region's most important paper fair.

This unique event should not be missed!
Paper One Show Beirut 2019 - Limited exhibition spaces remaining!
There are still opportunities to support the exhibition as a sponsor.
Present your solutions to the sector’s key decision makers.
58% of attendees at our 2017 exhibition were from senior management.
Don’t miss the chance to showcase your products to industry leaders.

In order to enable further growth, Neenah Coldenhove has invested in a completely new robotized packaging machine for mini jumbo and jumbo reels.

Previously these rolls were prepared and wrapped for shipment by Neenah Coldenhove ‘s employees. The new automated Pesmel packaging machine, which required a total investment of 1.8 million Euros, deals with this work automatically.

As a consequence, more manpower is available, which we have added to our fourth shift on PM2. This 4th shift is needed to be able to follow our continuous growth in the Dye Sublimation market place.

The new automated packaging machine enables us to use thinner rounds for our rolls. As these rounds will be less dented, we make the packaging tighter, stronger and safer to ship to the customer. We have already received very positive feedback from customers, who were happy with the improved quality.

At Neenah Coldenhove we keep on investing in (y)our future and stay focussed and committed to the markets we supply.
(Neenah Coldenhove)

International Forest Products LLC (IFP) is pleased to announce that Michael Ostrowski has been hired to assist with the sale of graphic papers. IFP’s affiliate, New-Indy LLC, is expected to close on the acquisition of a mill in Catawba, South Carolina by the end of the year. Michael will be working with IFP’s existing sales team to market graphic papers produced at this mill.

Michael is a 30-year veteran of the forest products industry. Most recently, he held the position of Vice President, Supercalendered Sales at West Linn Paper Company where his primary area of responsibility had been the sale of graphic papers to both end user and merchant accounts.

“We are excited to have Michael join the IFP team,” said Daniel Kraft, President and Chief Executive Officer of IFP. “He possesses a strong base of knowledge of the grades produced at Catawba and a long history of selling these grades, as well as customer relationships that will be a great complement to our existing business.”
(International Forest Products LLC)

-Duran Machinery, leading manufacturer of folder gluers becomes member of the Koenig & Bauer Group
-Complete lines from printing to the processing of folding boxes from a single source
-Duran’s brand OMEGA machines set new standards in the field of folding carton and corrugated gluing lines
-Increase in market share and sales growth expected

Koenig & Bauer has agreed with Duran Machinery in Istanbul to take over 80 per cent of its folder gluer business and integrate it into the Group under the name Koenig & Bauer Duran.

With this latest acquisition, the world's oldest printing press manufacturer is once again strengthening its activities in the growth segment of machines and systems for packaging production. Together with the Rapida sheetfed presses from Koenig & Bauer Sheetfed, flatbed die cutters from Koenig & Bauer Iberica and the folder gluers from Duran, the company can now offer complete lines for the printing and processing folding boxes from a single source – with products made in Europe. This gives Duran a clear competitive advantage over other suppliers of folding box gluers, which are left to their own resources in this market segment.

Ralf Sammeck, CEO of Koenig & Bauer Sheetfed and member of the Koenig & Bauer management board is pleased: "Over the past few years Duran has set new standards and successfully strengthened its position among our customers in the industrial packaging sector. We are now further expanding our worldwide presence as the printing press and die cutter manufacturer with the broadest product portfolio.“

Duran has more than 30 years of experience in designing and manufacturing folder gluers in various formats and configurations. Thanks to market share gains, today Duran has established itself as one of the leading manufacturers in its field. Along with six standard series of Omega folder gluers with different specifications and ancillary equipment, the company also provides R&D services to meet specific production requirements, starting from unique packaging designs and the manufacturing of innovative tailor-made machinery. Duran machines are used worldwide by manufacturers of cardboard and corrugated board packaging in more than 65 countries. Koenig & Bauer Duran will proceed its activities in Duran Machinery’s existing premises in Istanbul and with Duran’s management fully on board.

Oktay Duran, Chairman of Duran Machinery states: "We are proud to be a part of the great Koenig & Bauer Group and we are certain that we will achieve greater success in the global folding carton market with our new synergy.“

Koenig & Bauer expects the acquisition and integration of Duran to boost its market share in folding carton gluers, strengthen packaging production activities and boost sales.

The acquisition and integration of Duran is in line with the global Koenig & Bauer Group‘s strategy of focusing on growth markets.
(Koenig & Bauer AG (KBA))

Picture: The highlight of the Iggesund Christmas card is a deep, blind embossing of a moose

This year’s greeting card from Iggesund Paperboard is designed by the Taiwanese designer Kevin Chen, who specialises in embossing and foil stamping. The concept behind the card ranges from the Scandinavian forests, symbolised by the moose, which is the king of the forest, to a globe representing the world-wide availability of Iggesund Paperboard’s flagship product, Invercote.

The moose on the front of the card is a very deep and detailed blind embossing with several levels. The globe is a combination of blind embossing and foil stamping in silver. The card has several parts, which are made of Invercote Duo 610 g/m2 and Invercote Creato 300 g/m2. Chen says that Invercote Duo in particular is one of his favourite embossing substrates.

“Embossing places tough demands on the paperboard – the physical strain and the increased temperature caused by the encounter between the paperboard and the embossing tool. At the same time, the paperboard must be able to reproduce fine details. In my view, Invercote Duo’s strength properties and physical durability are ideal for embossing.”

The secret behind Invercote’s strength properties is that the paperboard is constructed in three layers. This makes it possible to vary the fibre composition and thereby to control the physical properties.

Kevin Chen’s focus on embossing was inspired at an early stage by the relief sculptures he saw at institutions such as the British Museum and the Louvre. When he later began his graphic career by designing wedding cards, he used the technique to enhance the recipient’s experience of the card. Another source of inspiration has been Guiseppe Castiglione, an Italian Jesuit who went to China as a missionary in the 17th century and who also painted.

“In his works, I find a tasteful fusion of the European and Chinese art traditions, which have been a great source of inspiration for me,” Chen continues.

Kevin Chen began by producing wedding cards at the beginning of the 1980s. His company also gradually moved into producing the packaging for corporate gifts for companies such as Toyota, Ferrero Rocher, 7-Eleven and Pernod Ricard. Previously, his company aimed to manage as many stages of the production chain as possible. Today, it outsources all the stages except the embossing and foil stamping, over which he wants full control.

Kevin Chen is 51 and lives and works in Taipei, Taiwan together with his wife and teenage son. He runs 10 kilometres before breakfast every morning, and he and his wife take every opportunity to participate in marathons and cycling events.

Invercote has become his favourite paperboard not only for its strength but also for its surface.

“It adds a graceful and sophisticated feel to my work. With that surface, even blind embossings acquire an unsurpassed elegance,” he concludes.
(Iggesund Paperboard AB)

13.12.2018

Valmet to supply a web monitoring system to Mayr-Melnhof Karton in Frohnleiten, Austria
(Company news)

The order is included in Valmet's fourth quarter 2018 orders received. Typically, the order value of these kinds of automation system deliveries is below EUR one million.

"Valmet IQ Web Monitoring System is one of the biggest and most sophisticated web monitoring systems in the world. Our leading technology fits perfectly to Mayr-Melnhof Group's strategy to implement innovative solutions. Also, we see this project as a long-term partnership to provide Industrial Internet tools to further enhance the customer's cost competitiveness," says Peter Lengauer, Manager, Pulp & Paper Sales, Austria & Eastern Europe, Automation, Valmet.

Information about Valmet's delivery
Valmet's delivery consists of a Valmet IQ Web Monitoring System (WMS) with 51 cameras throughout the whole production process on KM3. The high-speed cameras will monitor critical process areas and help the operators analyze the root causes of web runnability disturbances.

Key benefits for the mill are faster break recovery and preventive troubleshooting with leading technology camera equipment and video analysis tools. With a trim width of 4.4 m, KM3 produces recycled and barrier coated cartonboard in the weight range from 230 to 380 gsm.
(Valmet Corporation)

13.12.2018

Archroma Pakistan wins ‘Employer of the Year’ and ‘CEO of the Year’ awards for ...
(Company news)

Archroma, a global leader in color and specialty chemicals towards sustainable solutions, today announced that its Pakistan affiliate has been named ‘Employer of the Year’ in the multinationals segment in a nationwide contest organized by the Employers Federation of Pakistan (EFP), for the third time in a row.

EFP granted the award in recognition of Archroma’s best practice in human resource management, ethical marketing management and corporate social responsibility. Archroma always strives to maintain the highest standards in occupational safety and health fostering environmental protection through recycling and reuse. The production site at Jamshoro has a state-of-the-art Sustainable Effluent Treatment Plant with zero liquid discharge saving enormous amounts of water. The two production sites of Archroma have also completed One Million Safe & Accident Free working hours and all offices in Karachi have been declared “Green Offices” by WWF Pakistan. Archroma's Center of Excellence at Karachi provides round-the-clock customer support and is a forerunner in textile specialty research.

The efforts of Archroma Pakistan Limited in these areas also earned its CEO, Mujtaba Rahim, the ‘Best CEO of the Year 2017’ award.

On receiving the awards at the ceremony recently held at Karachi, Vaqar Arif, Head of Finance & Controlling Pakistan, Archroma, commented: “Archroma has more than 150 years of solid legacy of its predecessors which enriches our work environment of exemplary standards. Our company is committed to continuously challenging the status quo in the deep belief that we can make our industry sustainable. Archroma therefore strives to play a leading role in enhancing the business environment, and we are grateful to our employees for being one of our main strengths in doing so.”
(Archroma Management GmbH)

New Zanders Paper GmbH, emerged from Zanders GmbH, will maintain and even further develop the full product portfolio. Terje Haglund, head of the Scandinavian investor group that acquired the company as of 1 December 2018: “We are very much looking forward to continuing paper production at this historic industrial site. Zanders will carry on to optimize its cost structures. As a lean and healthy company, it will be well positioned to succeed in the highly competitive paper market. Zanders will continue to service its customers with the full existing product portfolio with a focus on meeting market demands.” Haglund has been active in the paper industry for more than 20 years, among others as Managing Director at Lessebo Paper (Sweden), and recently, together with a group of investors, acquired the paper manufacturer Virginal Paper.

Head of Management will be Andreas Willeke, who already headed the company in the past months as Chief Restructuring Officer. He combines proven expertise in restructuring in the industrial sector with important in‐depth knowledge of Zanders, its clients and products. Willeke: “We will continue to produce all existing products, from Chromolux paper and board, Zanlabel and Zanpack, Zankraft, Zanflex and Zanbarrier OGR to Silver digital and Zanjet, our successful high‐speed inkjet quality. And, in particular, we will further develop the new grades Zanbarrier NGR and Zangrass. This all will ensure sustainability of the business going forward.” The Sales Managers look forward to introducing the new Zanders to all customers shortly.
(Zanders-Paper GmbH)

Smurfit Kappa Group has significantly strengthened its presence in Western France with the acquisition of two Europac sites in Brittany.

The packaging leader has acquired the Caradec Box Plant in the Morbihan County and the Saint Pol de Léon site in the Finistére County, reinforcing its capabilities in the fruit and vegetable sector.

Smurfit Kappa has a strong track record in producing innovative and sustainable packaging solutions for the agriculture sector so the Caradec Box Plant is a natural fit with the company.

Smurfit Kappa will now have a stronger link to the Brittany food markets and welcomes 200 employees to its worldwide community of employees.

Speaking about the new acquisition, Smurfit Kappa COO of Corrugated Europe, Edwin Goffard, said: “This latest acquisition is part of our integrated strategy and supports our continued drive to open up new opportunities.”

Jean-Christophe Bugeon, CEO of Smurfit Kappa France added: “We are delighted to welcome the Caradec employees into our company. More and more retailers and growers are seeking more sustainable packaging alternatives for fresh produce and we can add an even wider choice of premium solutions to our offering.”

Four Toscotec-supplied AHEAD-2.0L PRODERGY tissue machines began production at ...
(Company news)

Asia Pulp and Paper (APP) has begun using four AHEAD-2.0L PRODERGY tissue machines at its OKI mill, in South Sumatra, Indonesia, as part of a series of AHEAD-2.0L PRODERGY tissue machines.

These four machines, included in a major contract between Toscotec and APP, started production ahead of schedule, in just 60 days between August 14th and October 14th 2018.

Thanks to the successful cooperation between APP and Toscotec, these eight start-ups have been completed over a total period of only 8 and a half months. The first two AHEAD-2.0L PRODERGY machines were started up at Perawang mill in the first quarter of 2018, and the following six machines at OKI mill in the second and third quarters of 2018.

The eight AHEAD-2.0L PRODERGY machines all have a paper width of 5,600 mm and an operating speed of 2,000 m/min. They feature a second-generation TT SYD Steel Yankee Dryer of 22 feet diameter, which represents the biggest diameter for tissue application worldwide. The energy saving design of the drying section relies entirely on steam, as the chosen energy source, including the steam-heated TT Milltech-DYH hoods.

Marco Dalle Piagge, Toscotec’s Sales Director, says, “The design of our PRODERGY machines is delivering the highest performance and energy efficiency currently available in the market. We knew that APP has very high standards when it comes to the environmental performance of its operations and production lines, with a focus on greenhouse gases and water footprint. We believe that Toscotec’s Energy Saving engineering design and advanced technology will make a significant contribution in this regard.”
(Toscotec S.p.A.)

Feldmuehle GmbH will focus on the production of specialty papers in the future, i.e. wet- and alkali-resistant label papers as well as flexible packaging papers.

On November 19, 2018, Feldmuehle GmbH filed for an application with the
competent local court in Pinneberg to open insolvency proceedings under its own administration pursuant to Sections 270, 270 a para. 1 InsO (German Insolvency Act). Following the management's application, the Pinneberg local court ordered the provisional self-administration on the same day (71 IN 38/18).
Dr. Dietmar Penzlin of Schmidt-Jortzig Petersen Penzlin Insolvenzverwaltung Partnerschaft von Rechtsanwälten mbB, Hamburg, was appointed as provisional administrator.

The restructuring of the company in the context of self-administration provides for all necessary measures to improve the profitability and thus sustainable competitiveness of the company.

The focus is the concentration on the product sector specialty papers, i.e. wet- and alkali-resistant label papers as well as flexible packaging papers.
The production of graphic papers is discontinued. In this connection, the paper machine 2 is shut down. The new business model requires staffing, i.e. the workforce is reduced to around 180 employees. The employees leaving the company are offered to switch to a transfer company in order to further qualify for the job market.

The management presented the overall concept on December 7, 2018, as part of an employee meeting with simultaneous commencement of the negotiation of the social plan with the works council.
(Feldmuehle GmbH)

12.12.2018

Valmet to supply a nonwovens rewinder to Papel Aralar in Spain
(Company news)

The Spanish company Papel Aralar S.A. has selected Valmet as the supplier for a new nonwovens rewinder to be installed in the existing PM 4 line at their plant in Amézqueta, Guipúzcoa, Spain.

Photo: Valmet F(O)CUS Nonwovens Rewinder

The order was included in Valmet's third quarter of 2018 orders received. The new nonwovens rewinder is planned to be in operation during the second quarter of 2019.

"Our target is to always invest in cutting-edge technology to be able to fulfill our customers' requirements. Papel Aralar has served this business for 55 years and, thanks to the support from Valmet, we immediately recognized the ability of their F(O)CUS electromechanical rewinder to preserve outstanding product properties," says Senén Amunarriz Cortina, General Manager of Papel Aralar.

"Valmet rewinders have a long record of successful installations, and they are well known in the market. We are proud and excited to launch the F(O)CUS machine concept in the nonwovens market and to support Papel Aralar's plans to expand to produce excellent nonwovens products," says Marco Capitani, Product Sales Manager for Nonwovens at Valmet.

Technical information
The new installation includes a Valmet F(O)CUS Reelite T15 E rewinder - the last stage of the innovative scalability concept of the Reelite T15 rewinder.

The machine is designed to have a maximum operating speed of 1,800 m/min and a maximum final reel diameter of 2,200 mm. It is equipped with a F(O)CUS electromechanical relieving system with Active Caliper Control (ACC) for perfect control of the winding parameters at high speed.

The shaft handler system, defect management system and connection with the existing packaging system complete the scope of supply.
(Valmet Corporation)

11.12.2018

Paperworld China demonstrates its effectiveness as a business platform
(Company news)

The curtains came down on another successful edition of Paperworld China, with stakeholders from across the paper and office supplies industries commending the fair as the ideal place to generate new business and learn about the latest retailing models. The three-day fair, which took place from 22 – 24 November 2018 in Hall 1 of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), was also applauded for championing unique and original stationery products.

Now in its 14th edition, the fair was held under the new theme of “Stationery trends. Tomorrow’s office” and was split across 23,000 sqm of exhibition space into four zones dedicated to ‘Stationery and Hobby’, ‘Tomorrow’s Office’, ‘Quality Suppliers’, and ‘Oriental Products’.

Visitor numbers rose 15% from the previous edition of the fair, as a total of 26,868 trade visitors converged at the show to search for the latest forward thinking designs and innovations. For many of these visitors, the fair was not only a great place to connect with Chinese suppliers, but also an ideal platform to meet quality international brands. Overall, 499 exhibitors from 16 countries and regions participated at the fair.

Ms Judy Cheung, Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd, spoke about how this year’s edition of the fair was ideally situated to serve the market’s requirements: “Younger generations are now becoming the dominant consumer group for stationery. The warm response to the fair’s themed areas, such as the ‘Stationery and Hobby’ zone and the ‘Small yet Beautiful’ showcase demonstrates that Paperworld China is catering extremely well to this demographic. Original stationery has also been a big hit among buyers at this edition, and we are proud to have done our part to promote original and unique designs through the Best Stationery of China Awards and the new ‘Design’ area. In terms of generating new business, the positive feedback from exhibitors is testament to the fair’s effectiveness as a platform for suppliers to connect with quality buyers and increase their brand exposure.”

Original stationery and new retailing models spotlighted at ‘Small Yet Beautiful’ showcase and new ‘Design area’
A number of themed zones and areas at this year’s edition of the fair fulfilled a variety of sourcing needs and attracted thousands of buyers to the aisles of each zone.
The ‘Stationery and Hobby’ zone was awash with visitors and the returning ‘Small yet Beautiful’ showcase was a hive of activity, with buyers sampling a wide range of stationery, gift and lifestyle products from leading brands such as Beifa, Guangbo, Mindwave, Simbalion and ZIPIT.

Not only was the 250 sqm showcase a great place to find new stationery items, but it was also a window into future retail trends. With younger generations beginning to have a greater influence on buying patterns, many stationery stores have been redesigned to offer an improved overall shopping experience. The showcase addressed this trend through a café area, unique methods of product presentation, and an interactive art station.

Ms Xu Feng, the owner of Shenyang Aofeisi Shangmao Ltd, spoke about how visiting helped her to find the latest trend setting products for her retail stores: “The fair hosts a wide variety of suppliers, from well-known brand names to small and medium companies, and plenty of cultural and creative products. It caters to buyers with all kinds of different sourcing needs. I have exchanged contacts with around five to six brands from China, Japan and Germany, and will find out if there is room for cooperation after the show. The set-up of the ‘Small yet Beautiful’ area brings a new and in-depth experience to visitors. It definitely helps visitors to understand the current diversified sales patterns.”

Original brands were an important part of the 2018 show and a spotlight was placed on the increasing standard of unique Chinese stationery design through the ‘Best Stationery of China Awards’. The awards took place the day before the show and a wide selection of entries were on display to visitors during the course of the fair. Some of the highlights included unique bookmark designs from PaperPlay and Sozencreate, ladybug styled miniature scissors from Guangzhou Qiwen Business Development, vegetable and fruit themed kitchen timers from Hangzhou Hechuang Culture Products, automatic pencil sharpeners from Shanghai Han Shu Industry, and a selection of fashionable travel logs, daily planners and diaries from companies such as Chenzao, Kokuyo Commerce, and Shenzhen Comix Group.

Shandong Orange Paper was one of the winners at the awards with its uniquely designed paper globes. The General Manager of the company, Ms Jiang Shaoying, spoke about how the awards helped to raise awareness of their unique design and attract trade visitors to their booth: “The organiser has featured our brand on its social media platform, and our stand has been constantly swarming with visitors. The fair enables us to meet agents and industry players who are pioneering new retail business models. We have met many professional buyers from both mainland China and abroad and have received the most up-to-date information about the industry. We will definitely participate again.”

The company was one of many emerging brands exhibiting at the new ‘Design’ area, which offered original brands the chance to showcase their latest designs and increase their brand exposure. Unique products could be found at the area from brands such as AIT, Card Lover, Douban, Ggem, Happihood, Honorscent, Orange Creation, Tsnow Stationery, Whitehole, and Xiaolin Creative.

‘Quality Suppliers’ and ‘Tomorrow’s Office’ zones connect exhibitors with the most relevant cross-section of buyers
At the ‘Quality Suppliers’ zone, exhibitors benefited from the fair’s high visitor flow as plenty of opportunities were taken to make new business contacts. Umajirushi, a Japanese company and first time exhibitor at Paperworld China attended to boost its exposure and competitiveness in the Chinese market.

Mr Telon Syu, Chief of Overseas Trading & Purchasing at the company, spoke about how exhibiting at the zone allowed the company to connect with quality buyers and generate new business: “We are amazed at how effective the fair is, as we have already received around 10 orders in the first two days. The visitor flow is excellent and we have received a lot of positive and encouraging feedback. The fair has provided exhibitors with the latest information on the industry, which is very helpful for devising targeted marketing strategies.”

Another Japanese company exhibiting at the zone, Mindwave, returned to the show to capitalise on the huge potential in the Chinese market for their specialised journals. Ms Gu Jie, a representative of the company, agreed that the show is an excellent avenue for foreign suppliers to find large Chinese distributors and retailers: “We see tremendous potential in the journal market in China as nowadays journals are very popular among teenagers and young mothers. Paperworld China is the right place for us to penetrate this market. From our first participation last year, we obtained leads from distributors and large-scale retailers. This year we are meeting them again and also new ones.”

At the ‘Tomorrow’s Office’ zone, Paperworld China proved itself to be a great place for visitors to meet with suppliers of modern office equipment. In co-operation with Sunon Group and Zhejiang Growin International Exhibition & Convention Co Ltd, a dedicated showcase allowed visitors to find new electronic appliances and desktop equipment for modern office settings.

Mr Kenny Zhu, Sales Director of Sunon Group talked about how the zone was aligned with modern office trends and how exhibiting at the zone allowed the company to gage customer requirements: “The concept of tomorrow’s office is forward thinking. In line with this, we have launched a series of office furniture which is equipped with smart devices, such as wireless charging stands and remote controls. The fair is definitely a great platform for us to meet potential clients from all over China and get first-hand information regarding customer demands.”

Seminars, workshops and dialogues illuminate newly developing trends
Running alongside the fair was a series of educational events that brought together experts, designers and industry leaders to share new ideas and insights on a range of important topics.
The subject of the evolving retail landscape was a recurring theme at the ‘Sino-Japanese Book Stationery Industry Summit Forum’, which examined ‘open’ retail environments that can also be considered as cultural spaces. Led by industry experts from China and Japan, the forum used case studies of Japanese retail outlets and also examined the merging of book and stationery retail.

Speaking about how the well-received forum allowed industry players to deepen their understanding of overseas retail models, Mr Guoji Ding, General Manager of Shanghai Yinling Brand Consulting said: “The retail market has undergone many changes in recent years. More integrated cultural spaces and stores that are popular online have been set up all over first and second tier cities in mainland China. Through this forum, industry players can learn how overseas’ business models work, discuss how to create retail stores with unique cultural elements, and discover new ways of boosting profits. The result is very encouraging. The visitors were professional and have raised deep and meaningful questions. I will definitely come and host other forums at Paperworld China again.”

Mr Ding’s positive sentiments about the meaningful exchanges of information that took place at Paperworld China were also echoed by a fellow speaker, Mr Toru Okuizumi, the President of the Japanese company Toukou bros, who said: “The platform has provided us with a good opportunity to communicate and exchange experiences and information with each other, and has also allowed us to learn about current developments and trends in China. I believe both event speakers and attendees can draw on the experiences gained at Paperworld China.”

The next edition of Paperworld China will take place in November 2019.
(Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd)

Keep Me Posted (KMP) announced the launch of its campaign in North America. KMP is a global advocacy campaign working for the right of every consumer to choose, free of charge, how they receive important information from their service providers – on paper or electronically.

Overseen by Two Sides North America, the KMP North America campaign will focus on educating and challenging corporations that are removing consumer choice and charging fees for paper. The campaign will coordinate with KMP global campaigns already launched in several European countries and Australia.

KMP has also partnered with the Coalition for Paper Options, Consumer Action, Haven Neighborhood Services, Montana Organizing Project, National Consumers League, and The National Grange to form a coalition to protect the consumer’s right to choose between paper and digital communications.

Millions of North American consumers are currently disenfranchised by increased digitization and need to receive bills and statements on paper due to reasons such as: lack of internet access, digital abilities, and growing security concerns with online fraud. Others prefer paper for convenience and practical reasons.

Results of a 2017 Toluna consumer survey conducted in the U.S. indicated that 90% agree that they should have the right to choose how they receive communications (printed or electronic) from financial organizations and service providers. 83% agree they should not be charged more for choosing a paper bill or statement.

According to a study by the Pew Research Center in 2018, 50% of American senior citizens, 76% of those who have not completed high school and 55% of those living in households with an annual income under $30,000 did not have broadband internet at home. These numbers have increased since 2013 because of the cost of internet access.

In Canada, approximately 18% of households do not have access to fixed broadband Internet access services at the CRTC target speeds and 64.4% of families in the lowest income quintile (the 20% lowest earners) used the internet at home compared to a national average of 86.9% (CRTC, 2016 and 2017).

“Keep Me Posted will be building a coalition of supporters (consumer groups, physical and mental health charities, trade unions and industry) to promote the adoption of the Keep Me Posted pledge from service providers,” states Phil Riebel, Director, Keep Me Posted North America. “By presenting the facts about consumer needs and preferences related to paper-based communications, our coalition will work with service providers to ensure consumers are not forced to go digital.”

“The majority of adult Americans prefer to receive at least some of their bills and statements in paper format and believe that paper format should continue to be provided to those who want it, at no extra cost,” states Linda Sherry, Director of National Priorities for Consumer Action. “The Keep Me Posted campaign is a much-needed effort to educate consumers and generate support for giving consumers the right to choose the way they want to communicate with service providers.”
(Keep Me Posted North America)

Smurfit Kappa Group has significantly expanded its product range in France with the acquisition of Papcart, a specialist in offset printing and conversion of cardboard and corrugated board consumer packaging,

The acquisition of Papcart enables Smurfit Kappa to extend its portfolio with a complete range for the luxury goods, wines & spirits, FMCG and bag-in-box markets. Smurfit Kappa already has a strong presence in the consumer packaging segments and corrugated board solutions for perfume and food so there is a natural synergy between the two companies.

With over 70 years’ experience, Papcart is equipped with the latest generation of offset printers, die-cutters, folder-gluers and finishing equipment and offers the widest spectrum of finishes required for gift and premium packaging by combining acrylic or UV inks, specific varnishes, hot and cold foil gilding, embossing and lamination to meet even the most complex customer needs.

With the Papcart acquisition and Smurfit Kappa's current sites of Tours sur Marne, Siemco and Colorys, Smurfit Kappa now has approximately 700 employees including a 40 person-strong design department to develop customised and sustainable consumer packaging for its customers in the luxury and consumer goods segments.

Speaking about the new acquisition, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Europe, Saverio Mayer, said: “This latest acquisition is of significant strategic importance for our French operations and significantly adds to the range of capabilities that we can offer our customers.”

Jean-Christophe Bugeon, CEO of Smurfit Kappa France added: “We are delighted to welcome the Papcart employees into the company. More and more companies are seeking more sustainable packaging alternatives and we can add an even wider choice of premium solutions to our offering.”

The Papcart sites located in Gétigné (44) and Jarnac (16) total 50,000m² of production, storage and office space.
(Smurfit Kappa Group Headquarters plc)

11.12.2018

SVEZA Group and Pesmel have signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding an ....
(Company news)

SVEZA Group is planning to construct a modern pulp mill in the Russian Federation, Vologda region. SVEZA has selected Pesmel as a partner to execute the potential pulp mill’s basic engineering for an automated pulp shipping buffer for truck, train and container logistics.

In October 2018 Pesmel and SVEZA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the objective of further cooperation in the planned pulp mill project. SVEZA is now proceeding with preparations, including environmental permits, for the prospective pulp mill.

SVEZA is a worldwide known plywood producer. Currently the company produces high-quality plywood of natural Russian birch at its six mills. With the annual production of 1,260,000 m3 SVEZA is the largest producer of natural birch plywood.
(Pesmel Oy)

Photo: The new Versafire generation EV/EP made its debut on the Chinese market on Commercial Day.

The print media industry in Asia is facing the same challenges as in other markets: print runs are getting shorter, the number of jobs is increasing, embellishment is becoming more and more complex, and all this with the shortest delivery times and lowest costs. Digitalization is progressing and these advantages are to be implemented internally in processes and externally in communication with print shop customers.

At the end of October, more than 400 customers experienced what this could look like by attending the Commercial Day at the Print Media Center Shanghai, China. Under the motto "Turn Passion into Profit", Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg) presented sustainable solutions to make commercial print shops more successful and to guide them on their way to the Smart Print Shop. The fully automated process chain with the Push to Stop philosophy, which is only interrupted manually if necessary, was demonstrated in networked live presentations. This optimized, intelligent production process stands for higher production reliability and thus for more productivity and cost-effectiveness.

The Smart Print Shop is based on the Prinect workflow, which completely networks and automates processes from prepress, digital and offset presses through to postpress. This reduces contact points in the production process and sustainably increases process efficiency.
(Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG)

11.12.2018

New graphical 3D configurator simplifies the planning of control cabinets
(Company news)

At SPS IPC Drives, Siemens is presenting a new graphical configurator for Sivacon 8MF1 system cubicles. The modular system consists of a basic framework in 90 different sizes and 2,000 flexibly combinable elements. This enables the implementation of tailored solutions for virtually all industrial sectors and applications. With the new graphical configurator, control cabinet manufactures can now configure the system cubicles directly on the 3D model and order them electronically. They benefit from considerably reduced planning efforts and error-free configuration, which also allows customized modifications. Order processing is thus significantly shortened. The new online configurator for Sivacon 8MF1 system cubicles, Version 1.0 is expected to be available free of charge on the Internet starting in February 2019.

The configuration of the 8MF1 system cubicles occurs completely intuitively with the help of the new online service: Per drag & drop, after selecting an already configured enclosure or a desired frame, a wide range of outside parts, side and rear walls, roof versions or trim trips, along with interior parts and accessory elements, can be chosen and added. All the modules are rendered three-dimensionally in the software. Even customized adjustments such as special colors or cutouts can be easily and realistically visualized. To prevent errors, the software checks all combinations automatically according to predefined rules. All data generated can afterwards be exported as 2D and 3D models in various formats and further processed in standard CAD tools. Parts lists, prices and product details are automatically generated, the order is handled fully digitally.
(Siemens AG)

International technology Group ANDRITZ has successfully started up the PrimeLineCOMPACT VI tissue production line – including stock preparation and automation system – delivered to Bashundhara Paper Mills Limited in Bangladesh.

Photo: Successful start-up of the ANDRITZ PrimeLineCOMPACT VI tissue production line at Bashundhara Paper Mills Limited in Bangladesh.

The ANDRITZ tissue machine – with a design speed of 2,100 m/min and a paper width of 2.85 m – produces tissue for high-quality facial wipes, toilet paper, and napkins. The 16 ft. PrimeDry Steel Yankee is made entirely of steel, thus enabling high and efficient drying performance, and was manufactured at the ANDRITZ Steel Yankee Business Center in Foshan, China, which offers customers in Asia state-of-the-art manufacturing, local field service, and comprehensive quality management. For ANDRITZ, it is the first high-speed tissue machine to be installed in Bangladesh.

The tissue production line is equipped with the ANDRITZ PrimeControl automation system for a high-performance production process. For the very first time, ANDRITZ has supplied a multi-motor drive (MMD) system with active line modules (ALM). The ALMs are designed for feeding energy back into the grid as a renewable energy solution, they offer low line harmonics that meet the demands of IEEE 519, and they enable stable operation of the motor, even with irregular power supply systems. All the tissue machine MMDs are powered from a common DC-busbar as are the approach flow and the air ventilation systems at times. The ANDRITZ LV motors are installed from fiber preparation to the tissue machine auxiliary system.

The scope of supply also included the complete stock preparation plant with approach flow system, fiber recovery and broke handling. The system features the ANDRITZ ShortFlow concept, an overall and compact process design that significantly reduces the number of single machines and storage volumes. Market bales are dissolved in a FibreSolve FSV pulper, which enables efficient slushing without damaging the fibers. TwinFlo refiners ensure balanced and efficient operation as well as superior fiber properties. Fiber recovery is mainly handled by a RotoWash, which achieves low solids content in the effluent water. Two further pulpers from the FibreSolve product family are part of the broke system.

The successful start-up confirms ANDRITZ’s strong position as one of the global market leaders for supply of complete tissue production lines, key components, and services.
(Andritz AG)

Join an anticipated 60+ Attendees for 2 days of networking and exchange of knowledge to get an update on the latest trends, developments and regulations impacting the pharma packaging industry.

APPCON 2019 - The 2 day conference will focus on packaging experts examining the packaging challenges from various perspectives – Regulatory, R&D, Cold Chain, Serialization, Machinery and Automation to build secure, optimized and robust packaging. You can expect open discussions and interactive sessions giving you a chance to voice your opinion and hear from thought leaders on following:
• Harnessing Blockchain and other innovative technologies for track and trace
• Temperature Controlled Solutions
• Green Pharma Initiatives
• Anti-Counterfeit Packaging

Testimonials
“APPCON 2018 Singapore is a wrap. Thanks to everyone who attended our presentation or visited our booth. We had plenty of productive, informative talks over the two days. Looking forward to the next edition!”
– Perigord on LinkedIn

“It is very interesting. First day at APPCON Singapore, pleased to see ideas of different people, companies and institutions converging to sustainability approach!”
– Business Unit Container Director, SACMI

Space within a shopping mall in Calgary, Canada has been transformed into a tennis court using award-winning specialist floor graphics media from Drytac®.

The project, at the Core Shopping Centre, was to promote the first Men's ATP Tennis event in Calgary, AB, hosted at the Alberta Tennis Center. Called the Calgary National Bank Challenger, the event in October 2018 was part of the ATP Challenger Tour - a series of tournaments considered to be a showcase of tennis's rising stars.

Using SpotOn® Floor 200, the project to create a public tennis court in the downtown Calgary shopping centre was undertaken by Print Three, which also sponsored the event. Shoppers and their families were invited to take to the court for a few sets of tennis, clearly marked with blue and white lines printed onto the specialist floor media from Drytac.

Drytac SpotOn Floor 200 is 200 micron (8 mil), matte, white monomeric PVC film designed for short-term, indoor floor graphics without the need for lamination. It has been awarded a post-printed R-10 anti-slip rating and a 'low slip potential' rating according to the EN 13036-4 Pendulum Test, endorsed by the CTIOA. SpotOn Floor 200 has also achieved a global Class B1 Fire Rating, meaning it can be used safely and legally in public areas with strict fire regulations, such as shopping centres.

Furthermore, this material has been designed for easy and tool-free installation and clean removal, thanks to its unique dot-pattern adhesive. Its innovative features earned Drytac SpotOn Floor 200 the top spot in the Media - Adhesive Back Vinyl category in the SGIA 2018 Product of the Year competition.

Print Three is a leading design, print and production company in Calgary, providing work at the 'highest quality standards in Canada', it says. General Manager Mark Eisan explains why Print Three chose the Drytac product, supplied by ND Graphics, for the project.

"We were testing products and laminates for the tennis court application and an installation partner recommended Drytac SpotOn Floor 200 after hearing about it at a conference," he says.

"We found the performance of the SpotOn product to be excellent. Our testing was intense, but we had planned to repair or replace areas. However, we did not need to as the product adhered for the ten days it was on the floor, and at the end of the project was removed in 20 minutes with no additional clean-up."

Mark Eisan says Print Three has received 'great service' from Drytac following the tennis court project and is considering other products for future applications.
He adds: "We are planning on creating a new court for next year's event as we will be sponsoring it again."
(Drytac Europe Limited)

Packaging Europe announced VTT's cellulose-based packaging solution as winner of its Sustainability Awards 2018 in the category of the Bio-based Packaging on 23rd of October in Gothenburg. VTT's solution is 100 % biobased and lightweight packaging material that combines cellulose films with different, but complementary properties creating an ideal packaging solution for dry food packaging applications.

This is already the third time the solution has gained success in a competition. VTT was one of five winners in the Ellen MacArthur Foundation competition last January, and received a prize of EUR 200,000 and access to a twelve-month Acceleration Programme. The packaging solution also won the Ecopack Challenge award last spring, and it has given VTT an opportunity to cooperate with Marks & Spencer.

"We are now in the midst of the Accelerator Program of Ellen MacArthur Foundation's Circular Materials Challenge, and we are speeding up the development of the material at VTT. Our work focuses at the moment on the recyclability of the material and upscaling," tells Anna Tenhunen.

Fast commercialization of the material is important to actually be able to contribute to solving the global challenges we face and therefore it is important that companies engage themselves in the business value chain. Active discussions are held across the whole value chain – major packaging companies as well as large brand owners have expressed their interests towards the innovation.
(VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland)

EFI has signed a memorandum of understanding with Chilean company Arauco, with the aim of collaborating on Young Leadership initiatives and building bridges between Europe and South America around the bioeconomy.

BAHMÜLLER expands production capacity and shortens delivery times
(Company news)

Wilhelm Bahmüller Maschinenbau Präzisionswerkzeuge GmbH, located in Plüderhausen near Stuttgart (Germany), opened a new production hall with an area size of 1550 sqm. After a construction period of 6 months and an investment volume of € 1.5 million, the capability to assemble systems modularly and thus significantly reduce processing times was created.

The new hall offers eight module assembly workstations and additional space for the commissioning of two complete systems. During his opening speech, Michael Holtmann, CEO and Managing Director of BAHMÜLLER, mentioned that corrugated cardboard processing contributes a turnover of almost € 40 million to the company's business volume and continues to grow disproportionately. The company is approaching the production of its 100th TURBOX line. With the additional capacity of the new production hall, BAHMÜLLER intends to shorten the current delivery times of up to one year for machines. The company’s slogan "Team Up With Us" emphasises that BAHMÜLLER develops its products in close partnership and dialogue with its customers and incorporates the wishes and ideas of the users into its machine concepts. BAHMÜLLER has been able to recruit production and process managers from the packaging industry to continuously expand its process competence.
(Wilhelm Bahmüller Maschinenbau Präzisionswerkzeuge GmbH)

07.12.2018

Stora Enso and startup Sulapac have joined forces to develop renewable and ...
(Company news)

... biodegradable straws

Stora Enso and Sulapac continue to combat the global problem of plastic waste by introducing a demo of a sustainable straw at Slush 2018, a global leading startup event gathering of 20 000 tech enthusiasts. The demo, targeting industrial scale production, is designed to replace traditional plastic straws with renewable ones. The straws are based on Sulapac’s biocomposite material – made of wood and natural binders – designed to be recycled via industrial composting and biodegrade in marine environment.

Stora Enso and Sulapac continue to combat the global problem of plastic waste by launching a demo for sustainable drinking straws at Slush 2018, a leading startup event that gathers 20,000 tech enthusiasts from around the world. The demo, which targets production on an industrial scale, is designed to replace traditional plastic straws with renewable ones. The straws are based on Sulapac’s biocomposite material – made of wood and natural binders – designed to be recycled via industrial composting and biodegrade in marine environments.

“This is an important step for Stora Enso and showcases our long-term commitment to gradually replacing fossil-based materials with renewable solutions. Our collaboration with Sulapac is a great example of what we can achieve through partnership in terms of driving innovation to create sustainable solutions within the bioeconomy,” says Annica Bresky, EVP, Consumer Board division.

Stora Enso signed a joint development agreement with Sulapac in May 2018 to license its materials and technology. The development of the demo straw is a joint collaboration between Stora Enso and Sulapac – a cooperation which complements Stora Enso’s extensive biocomposite portfolio.

“Eco-awareness is a strong driver for consumer demand, and our customers want help in replacing non-renewable materials. Different biocomposite solutions, such as renewable caps and closures and straws will be add-ons and a complement to our own consumer board portfolio, bringing additional value to our customers,” says Hannu Kasurinen, SVP Head of Liquid Packaging and Carton Board.

Sulapac’s material works in existing extrusion lines and the target is to have the straws commercially available in Q2 2019.

“Today, we proudly announce that we are launching a demo for a recyclable, microplastic-free and marine biodegradable straw. This is the world’s most sustainable straw that can be produced on an industrial scale and we have jointly developed it with Stora Enso. Billions of plastic straws are produced and used every week. This straw has the potential to be a true game changer,” says Sulapac’s founder and CEO Suvi Haimi.
(Stora Enso Oyj)

Company recognized for its "Heart Your Planet" collaboration in North America with the World Wildlife Fund

Kimberly-Clark, along with its partners from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), were honored by the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) with a 2018 Leadership Award for Kimberly-Clark and WWF's "Heart Your Planet" collaboration. The program was unanimously selected for the Uncommon Partnership award for its success in engaging consumers to look for the WWF Panda logo and FSC® label on product packaging to support responsible forest management.

"Kimberly-Clark continues to lead the U.S. tissue industry as a producer and influencer in promoting the importance of making more responsible products that use FSC®-certified fiber," said Jay Gottleib, president of Kimberly-Clark's North American Family Care business. "We are proud to have the WWF Panda logo and FSC® label printed on our packaging. This shows our support for these organizations, and demonstrates to our consumers that by using their favorite paper towel, facial and bath tissue, they are helping protect our forests."

The "Heart Your Planet" collaboration launched in 2017, and was the first on-pack awareness campaign of its kind for WWF in the U.S. For over a year, consumers have seen this messaging collaboration on trusted Kimberly-Clark brands, including Kleenex®, Scott, Cottonelle and Viva.

"Given the popularity of Kimberly-Clark's brands and WWF with consumers, this partnership is essential to increase consumer preference for FSC®-certified products from responsibly managed forests," said Corey Brinkema, president of the Forest Stewardship Council U.S.

Kimberly-Clark was the first U.S tissue manufacturer to offer branded FSC®-certified products starting with Kleenex® facial tissue, and it is the first in the industry to have 100% of its suppliers certified as providing fiber from responsibly managed sources. The company also continues its commitment to sourcing 100% virgin wood fiber for its products from certified sources, and it is expanding this commitment to fiber-based packaging. Since 2009, Kimberly-Clark has increased the use of environmentally preferred fibers, including FSC®-certified fiber, in its global tissue products to 89 percent. This is the third FSC® Leadership Award Kimberly-Clark has received since 2014.
(Kimberly-Clark Corp.)

Due to continued high pulp prices and increasing energy and transportation costs, the longer term economic viability of our paper assets remains at risk.

Sappi is therefore forced to pass on this cost inflation by increasing its CWF and UWF prices in sheets and reels by 6-8% effective on deliveries from January 1st 2019 for all European and Overseas markets. This follows previous announcements made for its LWC and MWC grades.
(Sappi Europe S.A.)

07.12.2018

Expansion in Laakirchen: New production and office areas for Voith
(Company news)

Voith is expanding its facility in Laakirchen. For more efficient production, the company is currently extending its production areas by around 3,150 square meters. It is also adding new offices and a logistics hall with a new access road for heavy goods vehicles.

A large proportion of global paper production is done on Voith machines and equipment. The technology group, which has its head office in Heidenheim, Germany, delivers rolls for paper machines all over the world from its facility in Laakirchen, Austria. As well as producing new rolls, the Laakirchen plant also receives rolls for servicing at regular intervals, e.g. for the renewal of roll covers. The different types of rolls have various functions, e.g. they help guide the paper webs evenly through the machine, and are used for dewatering, pressing and drying. They also ensure that the paper has a uniform smoothness and gloss. In addition, the rolls, which can be up to 15 meters long and weigh as much as 120 metric tons, have to master speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour.

The purpose of the expansion is to be able to assemble the rolls with as little effort and waiting times as possible and thus significantly accelerate the entire process. Following the expansion, this will be achieved by systematic cycle timing, the clear separation of production lines and a realigned machining tool. “Through this comprehensive investment in Laakirchen we are underscoring our leading role for the European paper industry in respect of rolls, roll covers and associated services,” says Manfred Jaspersen, Operations Manager of Voith Paper Rolls. Due to its central location, Laakirchen is the ideal site for facilitating short routes to customers.
(Voith Paper Rolls GmbH & Co KG)